Fall Thai-Speaking Resident Director - Chiang Mai, Thailand

CONSULTANT/CONTRACTOR SUMMARY

The Southeast Asian Languages Initiative program, located in Chiang Mai, Thailand assists learners of Thai in the acquisition of the targeted Southeast Asian language and culture. The SEAFLI programs consist of intensive, structured language instruction; and peer tutors/conversation partners with native speakers of the target language. The SEAFLI Program Resident Director serves as American Councils’ representative in Chiang Mai in the areas of participants’ health, safety, academic performance, and program logistics. He/she must be available to program participants on a daily basis; meet regularly with teachers, administrators, and students; arrange group travel and cultural programs; and observe SEAFLI language classes. The Resident Director must be available to participants during any emergencies that arise and must communicate regularly with host institution representatives in Thailand and American Councils staff in Washington, DC. Prior to the beginning of the program, all Resident Directors are required to complete an orientation program for staff and attend the Pre-Departure Orientation for SEAFLI students in July. The Resident Director will travel to the program site in advance of the students’ arrival. The Resident Director reports to the US-based Senior Program Manager.

ANTICIPATED EMPLOYMENT DATES: August 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026 (tentative)

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as the local liaison between American Councils and the host institute administration as directed to ensure that the academic program proceeds as agreed;
• Monitor participants’ health, safety, academic performance, and promptly communicate significant issues to American Councils’ and host institution staff;
• Coordinate health care for participants and intervene on behalf of participants as necessary;
• Enforce policies regarding terms and conditions of program participation;
• Coordinate host country program logistics, including cultural excursions and related travel, and communicate logistical details to US-based staff;
• Submit weekly written updates to the Senior Program Manager;
• Coordinate with the host institution to coordinate peer tutors/conversation partners;
• Submit a final report, program grades, and test scores within two weeks of program conclusion;
• Manage program finances and submit monthly expense reports accounting for all program expenditures;
• Other responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated Advanced level or higher oral proficiency in Thai;
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in relevant language or area studies or equivalent;
• Study, work, or extensive travel experience in Thailand;
• Experience overseeing and guiding groups;
• Demonstrated skills in academic and personal counseling;
• Demonstrated skills in general financial accountability.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen

BENEFITS

This position is not eligible for healthcare benefits. American Councils is committed to providing employment opportunities for all individuals, in accordance with current federal regulations. Our focus is on ensuring that all individuals have equal access to employment and advancement opportunities based on merit. American Councils’ commitment to employment opportunity is driven by federal requirements, including Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act (supporting individuals with disabilities) and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) (protecting covered veterans). We also ensure our employment practices comply with all applicable regulations, including E-Verify requirements for work eligibility. We are dedicated to fostering a workplace where all individuals have the opportunity to succeed and grow, in full compliance with federal law.